Sinusitis: What It Feels Like and What Helps

Sinusitis usually starts with a blocked nose, facial pressure, and thick discharge. That combination makes it hard to breathe, sleep, or taste food properly. You don’t need fancy tests at first—symptoms, how long they last, and how bad they are tell you most of what you need to know.

Most sinusitis cases follow a cold or an allergy flare. Viral infections cause the majority and usually clear in 7–14 days. Bacterial sinusitis is less common but may stick around longer or get worse after a week. Other triggers include nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or repeated allergy exposure.

Quick Relief at Home

Want relief now? Try these simple, effective steps:

• Steam and warm compresses: Inhale steam from a bowl or hot shower; place a warm compress over your face to ease pressure.
• Nasal saline rinse: Use a saline spray or neti pot to flush mucus. Do this once or twice daily to clear your sinuses.
• Stay hydrated and rest: Fluids thin mucus and rest helps your immune system work faster.
• Over-the-counter meds: A decongestant (short-term) or an NSAID like ibuprofen can reduce pain and swelling. Follow package directions and avoid long-term decongestant sprays.
• Allergy control: If allergies trigger your symptoms, antihistamines and avoiding triggers (pets, pollen, dust) help a lot.

Don’t rush to antibiotics. They only help bacterial infections. If symptoms improve in a week or two, antibiotics weren’t needed.

When to See a Doctor

See a clinician if you have any of these: fever over 102°F (39°C), severe facial pain, symptoms longer than 10–14 days without improvement, repeated infections, or vision changes. Also get checked if ear pain or a worsening cough develops. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics for clear bacterial sinusitis, suggest steroid nasal sprays for inflammation, or refer you for imaging or ENT evaluation if structural issues keep causing problems.

Surgery is rare but can help when polyps, a shifted septum, or chronic blockage keep causing infections. ENT specialists use targeted procedures to open blocked sinuses and improve drainage.

Want more reading? Check these related guides on our site: Bronchitis Symptoms: How to Keep Them in Check, Future Allergy Treatments, Fexofenadine Alternatives for non-drowsy relief, Vitamin D and chest congestion, and Broad-Spectrum vs Narrow-Spectrum Antibiotics. Each one offers clear tips that pair well with sinus care.

If you’re unsure about symptom severity, call your healthcare provider. Early, sensible action often means shorter illness and fewer headaches—and yes, clearer sinuses sooner.